A storm door is an additional exterior door that is installed in front of your primary entry door. They are designed to enhance energy efficiency while serving as a protective barrier against various weather elements, such as rain, snow, wind, and debris.
- A storm door acts as a shield, protecting your primary entry door and entrance from harsh weather conditions and external damage.
- They offer an extra layer of insulation, reducing drafts and improving energy efficiency.
- Storm doors provide added security, allowing you to open your entry door and interact with strangers or unknown visitors without providing them clear access to your home.
What are Storm Doors For?
Besides weather protection, storm doors offer:
- Energy Efficiency: By reducing drafts and heat loss, storm doors enhance the insulation of your home. This improves energy efficiency, lower utility bills, and a more comfortable living environment.
- Ventilation and Airflow: Many storm doors are equipped with screens that can be swapped with glass panels or have screens that slide up and down with the glass door. Enjoy fresh air circulation during pleasant weather while keeping bugs and debris out and keeping pets and children inside safe.
- Enhanced Security: Storm doors provide an additional layer of security by acting as a deterrent and offering reinforced locks. You can even keep your entry door open while still maintaining a level of protection.
What Does a Storm Door Do?
So, what do storm doors actually do?
Well, for starters, they provide weather protection and weatherproofing. Storm doors feature weatherstripping and tight seals to keep rain, snow, and wind from penetrating your home. Which helps maintain a comfortable indoor environment and prevents damage to the primary entry door.
They also offer insulation in the form of an additional layer. A storm door helps reduce drafts and heat transfer, which improves energy efficiency. The insulation can make a noticeable difference in both summer and winter months.
Finally, they offer natural light and visibility. Storm doors often have glass panels, which allow natural light to enter your home, creating a brighter and more inviting atmosphere while still providing a clear view of the outside.
What are Storm Doors Made Of?
Storm doors are crafted from different materials, each with its own characteristics. Common materials used in storm door construction include:
- Aluminum. Lightweight and durable, aluminum storm doors are low-maintenance and resistant to rust and corrosion. They are available in various finishes and offer good value for money. These are the BEST storm doors because of construction on lifetime warranties.
- Steel. Steel storm doors provide excellent strength, security, and durability. They are often coated with protective finishes to prevent rust and can be customized with different panel styles. These doors require some maintenance and have been replaced as a favorite with Aluminum Storm Doors.
- Wood. Wood storm doors offer a classic, traditional look and can be stained or painted to match your home’s aesthetic. However, they require regular maintenance to protect against moisture and potential rot. These are high maintenance and not energy efficient since they can create drafts.
What is the Best Storm Door?
Choosing the best storm door for your home depends on various factors such as your specific needs, budget, and personal preferences. Here are a few considerations
to keep in mind:
- Material: Aluminum Storm doors that are made approx the thickness of an American Quarter are typically best. The advantages of factory paint, hardware, retractable screens, removable screens, and tempered glass give you durability, aesthetics, and low maintenance requirements. Also companies like PROVIA manufacture these doors with a LIFETIME WARRANTY. Provia also manufactures entry doors- so you can paint match the entry door and storm door as well as share the same keylock to make entry to your home easier and faster.
- Style and Design: Consider the architectural style of your home and choose a storm door that complements it. You’ll find a wide variety of styles, from full-view doors to those with decorative glass panels or retractable screens. (See Provia with over a hundred different style available.)
- Energy Efficiency: Look for storm doors with energy-efficient features such as Low-E glass, insulated cores, and weatherstripping. These elements contribute to improved insulation and energy savings. Provia has Low -E glass to tinted and designer glass available based on your home design.
- Quality and Warranty: Invest in a storm door from a reputable manufacturer like PROVIA that offers a solid LIFETIME warranty in writing. Quality construction and reliable customer support along with the correct installation, ensure your door will withstand the test of time. Provia makes the best storm door in the industry.
If you need help choosing the right storm door, the pros at Tom Adams can help. We’ve been doing this stuff for years, and we love it! Ask about our 5-Star Rated Installation.
We serve the Philadelphia area including Bucks County, Montgomery County, Berks County, Lehigh Valley, and North East Philadelphia. Book a free consultation now to receive an estimate.
You can also stop by our 3 showrooms and see over 40 entry and storm doors on display. Use our large screen computer to design the doors of your dreams!
